News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

March 16, 2017

PROVINCE TO AMEND, MODIFY LEGISLATION THAT WOULD REDUCE RED TAPE THAT OBSTRUCTS BUSINESS, INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT

The Manitoba government is introducing proposed legislation that would reduce outdated, contradictory, complicated or ineffective regulatory requirements imposed on businesses, industry and local governments, Finance Minister Cameron Friesen said today.

“Our government is committed to eliminating the barriers that prevent business and local governments from thriving and expanding,” said Friesen. “The red tape reduction and government efficiency act would amend or repeal 15 pieces of legislation to reduce the red tape that is creating burdens on business, non-profits, municipalities, private citizens and government officials.”

The proposed legislation would:

repeal The Public-Private Partnerships Transparency and Accountability Act, The Manitoba Natural Resources Development Act and The Health Services Act;

remove duplication and inconsistency of government reporting requirements in The Fisheries Act and Ecological Reserves Act;

streamline arbitration procedures in The Labour Relations Act;

replace triennial government cheque-cashing rate reviews currently mandated by The Consumer Protection Act with reviews to be undertaken at the request of the minister;

eliminate the need for ministerial approvals for municipalities to charge more than a specified amount to property owners for controlling noxious weeds under The Noxious Weeds Act;

replace government-issued arborist licences under The Forest Health and Protection Act with recognized third-party certification from the International Society of Arboriculture;

remove general prohibitions from The Environment Act for the expansion of hog barns and manure storage facilities;

eliminate un-proclaimed provisions of The Groundwater and Water Well Act that require identification plates on each drilling machine and require engineers or geoscientists to submit reports; and

modify The Drinking Water Safety Act to reduce the frequency of major audits on small, semi-public water systems (e.g. campgrounds), eliminate the need for permits for minor alterations to water systems and align laboratory reporting requirements to the risk to human health.

“Our government recognizes the status quo has created unnecessary challenges for both industry and government,” said Friesen. “The proposed changes were identified as priority actions by both industry leaders and the civil service. Once implemented, these changes would improve efficiency and effectiveness, making it easier for all Manitobans to prosper and focus on their priorities.”

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For more information:

Public information, contact Manitoba Government Inquiry: 1-866-626-4862 or 204-945-3744.